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Summary

Electronic Resource Management (ERM) describes software used to manage digital subscriptions in libraries. Typically, the routines include subscription product names, descriptions, producer, aggregator, license start and end dates, renewal alerts, images of contracts, price and payment terms, payment records, access URLs, usernames and passwords, interface administrative URLs, verification access methods, access restrictions, vendor contacts, contact history, and links to usage reports.

Different ERM packages have been developed both as modules of Integrated Library Systems (ILS) by ILS vendors and as independent projects by academic institutions. A critical issue with ERM software is the establishment of standard data elements so that information can be transferred from a vendor to a library; or between libraries; or migrated from one ERM product to another. The Digital Library Foundation (DLF) sponsors a working group that is continuing the effort to develop these standards. A crucial document in that effort is Electronic Resource Management: The Report of the DLF Initiative.

Papers

• Electronic Resource Management:
  Report of the DLF ERM Initiative

• Standards in Electronic Resource Management (April 2006)
• Reading and Mapping License Language for Electronic Resource Management

ERM Products and Projects

• Innovative Interfaces Millenium ERM system
• SirsiDynix ERM Solution
• VTLS Verify
• Endeavor Meridian
• Ex Libris Verde
• Harvard ERM
• Colorado Alliance Goldrush
• UCLA ERdb